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RUMI&SHAMS

One day, Shams entered Rumi’s gathering, where Rumi was delivering a speech. By then, Rumi was already a famous theologian. Shams noticed the books he was studying and asked, ‘What are these?’
Rumi replied dismissively: ‘Something the ignorant cannot understand.’ Shams took the books and threw them into the nearby river.
Rumi said: ‘O dervish, some of these books are mementos of my father, unique and rare copies!’
Shams of Tabriz plunged his hand into the water and retrieved the books. They had remained completely dry...
Rumi asked, astonished: ‘What is this secret?!’
Shams replied: ‘Something that the wise cannot understand.’ And he added: ‘Seek the knowledge that no water can erase — the knowledge of your heart...’

This episode marked the beginning of a new life for Rumi, who died to himself and found a new birth in the spiritual exchanges he had with Shams. He abandoned all his positions as a respected and renowned man of faith, and turned to mysticism, poetry, dance and music, becoming one of the most important Persian poets.
Inspired by the transformative encounter between Jalāl ad-Dīn Rūmī (Mowlana) and Shams Tabrizi, this project emerges as a space where music, poetry and memory converge. Rooted in the Persian tradition yet open to dialogue with other cultures, the music of these artists seeks to give voice to a poetic and spiritual heritage that spans centuries and continues to resonate in the present. Between improvisation, words and silence, the concert offers a moment of deep listening, where different cultural worlds meet through music.
In a time marked by war and uncertainty, this project also takes on a dimension of testimony. More than ever, at a time when Iranian culture is under threat, it has become urgent to bring this memory to life and document it. A project that began as a celebration of the meeting between two great mystics has ultimately also become a testimony of our times — a time in which disunity seems to prevail. Perhaps that is why it is even more necessary today to look within once more and recognise ourselves in all those we encounter.

Performers
Mostafa Taleb, kamancheh and vocals
Milad Mohammadi, tar and vocals
Rouzbeh Sayaddi, tar

Information
If you have any questions, please contact us:
Tel. 967 716 647 or info@cistermusica.com